UNIDO, NASENI Collaborate for Clean Energy, Industrial Growth in Nigeria
By Patience Ikpeme
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is forging a collaborative partnership with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) to tackle energy poverty and accelerate industrial development in Nigeria.
The collaboration seeks to address two key objectives: to reduce energy poverty by facilitating the domestication of renewable energy solutions, the partnership aims to improve access to clean and affordable energy for Nigerians, particularly in underserved communities and to fast-track industrial development by leveraging German technology and expertise through UNIDO’s Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) Germany, the collaboration aims to strengthen NASENI’s capabilities in various sectors, including renewable energy, agriculture, and manufacturing.
During a recent meeting between UNIDO representatives and NASENI officials in Abuja, the Deputy Head of UNIDO Nigeria, Mr. Adekunle Olusile, emphasized the significance of this partnership in supporting the current administration’s food production agenda. He highlighted the potential for collaboration with German companies in areas like food processing, food packaging, and biogas production.
The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, expressed appreciation for UNIDO’s initiative, reiterating NASENI’s mandate to drive industrial growth through technology transfer, domestication, and production of capital goods for SMEs and entrepreneurs.
During a presentation, NASENI showcased its various technological innovations, including renewable energy solutions, agricultural machinery, and industrial equipment. This presentation resonated with the UNIDO delegation, led by Mr. Michael Schmidt, who expressed Germany’s strong commitment to renewable energy and its desire to partner with NASENI for mutual benefit.
To ensure concrete progress, NASENI and UNIDO established a working group to develop and implement initiatives, involving key stakeholders like German companies Bloomhill Agroservices, (B)energy, Wilo Pumps, GEA, EMPO-NI, and the University of Weihenstephan-Triesdorf.
This collaborative effort holds immense potential for advancing Nigeria’s energy security, fostering sustainable industrial development, and creating employment opportunities for Nigerians. The combined expertise of NASENI and UNIDO, coupled with the support of German technology and investment, lays a strong foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria.
